16oz.sharp cheddar cheesegrated, plus extra for serving
2t.Dijon mustard
2t.Worcestershire sauce
8oz.mild-flavored beer
1/4c.chopped red onion
4pretzel rolls or a loaf of crusty breadto serve
Instructions
Add butter to a Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Once melted, add carrot, celery, onion and garlic and sauté, stirring occasionally, until soft, about 8-10 minutes.
Gradually add flour and stir constantly until completely incorporated without any lumps. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes.
Stir in broth and increase heat to medium-high. Bring to a boil, and then immediately reduce heat to medium-low. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste, and stir to combine. Simmer uncovered for approximately 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and blend the mixture with an immersion blender until smooth. Otherwise, transfer the liquid to a blender and blend until completely smooth. Work in batches if necessary.
Once smooth, return mixture to Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-low heat. Temper the heavy cream by adding a couple of tablespoons of the hot soup to it, then stir it into the pot until well combined.
Slowly whisk in goat cheese and half the cheddar cheese. Stir continually until cheese is completely melted before adding the remaining cheddar cheese. Stir constantly until completely melted.
Add the mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and beer and stir until blended. If the soup is too thick at this point, add a little additional chicken or vegetable stock to reach desired consistency. Continuing simmering on medium-low heat another 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Serve immediately with soft pretzel rolls or crusty bread of your choice. Garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, red onion, and/or popcorn, if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
Tip: Take a “low and slow” approach while preparing this recipe. Most importantly, don’t allow the soup to boil after adding the cheese because it will cause it to separate.